Reviewing Christian & secular children's literature through the lens of the gospel

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

Izzy's Popstar Plan by Alex Marestaing

Recommendation: Recommended

This book is advertised as "a daily devo that reads like a novel!" Read it as a novel, not a daily devotional.

Young Izzy has always dreamed of being a pop star and she has made a plan of how she will accomplish this goal. This story takes you on her personal journey in pursuing that dream. It's written as a series of blog posts and she shares her ups and downs - spiritual and emotional along the way.

Positives: A cute little story for your tween girl. I enjoyed the honesty with which Izzy shared her trials. Young girls will relate to some of the things she deals with. She is honest in her spiritual struggles as well. I appreciated the use of Scripture throughout.

Negatives: I would never advise anyone to use this as a daily devotional. Most days Izzy includes a verse in her blog post but I don't have any idea how this is supposed to help a young girl study the Word of God and know her God better. Also, Izzy talks often about God, but Jesus is only referenced once or twice in the entire story.

Talking Points: Take the opportunity to talk with your daughter about her own life. Talk about the challenges that being a tween and teen often present. Reassure them that there are things that will never change - like God (Ps. 90:2) and His Word. (Is. 40:7-8, I Peter 1:24).

Age Level: 11-15 year old girls

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255